A Tribute To Vin Scully
"It's Time For Dodger Baseball"......Vin Scully
I consider myself lucky to have lived through a golden era of professional baseball. Born in 1950 in the Midwest I took a liking to baseball more than any other sport. Where I grew up we rooted for the Cincinnati Reds, one of the first professional baseball teams that built a reputation for baseball tradition and top talent. Being a fan of the Reds in those days almost demanded that you uphold your loyalty to not just your team but to the game itself.
Through radio and television I was introduced to some great players. Frank Robinson, Vada Pinson, Johnny Temple, Jim O’Tool, Pete Rose and Johnny Bench. Through the years I would learn to appreciate Stan Musial, Hank Aaron, Roger Maris, Mickey Mantle, Bob Gibson, Tom Seaver, Sandy Koufax, Don Drysdale and way too many more to mention.
You get the idea. The number of notable players and the recent deaths of some of those icons are a testimony to that golden age. They bring back memories of a simpler and slower time when baseball provided not just entertainment but an identity you could cling to and root for through the long hot lazy summer.
Which brings me to the recent passing of an icon in baseball that took his place daily in the broadcast booth. Vin Scully was the golden voice during this very special golden era. Vinny brought a game to life whether you were watching on television or listening on the radio. His descriptions painted the perfect picture of the events taking place on the field and he knew when to allow the fans describe the events on the field through his silence.
Ironically, Vin Scully began his broadcast career in the year that I was born. Amazing to think that he was witness to all of those golden era names that I mentioned above and many more. He started with a one month contract and the rest is history as they say.
When my family moved from the Midwest to Southern California I had the privilege of listening to him throughout the season and spent many evenings at Dodger Stadium. As kids we would often try to mimic his broadcast just as we would try to emulate our favorite pro player. He was special!
Vin Scully was one of a kind and will remain a beloved spirit among the baseball community and it’s fans.
I am grateful for the memories! It’s time for Dodger baseball.
Enjoy Vinny’s last Dodger day.
The sound of his voice resonates nostalgic memories of growing up. I remember dad washing his car with his transistor radio propped up on the brick shelf while intermittently hearing Vin calling the games. It was a glorious memory and one that grows dearer as time passes. Even though I didn't understand the game of baseball fully until I was older, I loved hearing him shout "foul ball!" and also declaring we all needed some "Farmer John!" in our lives. :)
Vin Scully and the Dodgers were such a big part of our growing up years. A love of baseball was shared with our kids as we spent many summer nights at Dodger Stadium. When not at the game we were listening at home to the radio and cheering them on. Such a wonderful family memory for us and thankful that we were able to share a small part of this great American tradition together.